What Do You Call Someone Who Loves Nature? 15 Synonyms You’ll Actually Want to Use
Ever met someone who can’t shut up about their hiking trips, obsesses over their houseplants like they’re children, and prefers bird songs over Spotify playlists?
Yeah, they’re probably one of us—a full-blown nature lover. 🌿
But let me guess… you’re tired of just calling them a “nature lover,” right? I feel you. It’s like calling a gourmet chef a “food person.” C’mon, we can do better.
So what do you call someone who loves nature?
I’ve rounded up 15 juicy, quirky, poetic, and sometimes hilarious synonyms for the earth-obsessed among us. Whether you’re writing a bio, caption, love letter, or just trying to sound cooler at your next camping trip—I’ve got you covered.
Let’s get wild. 😉
1. Nature Enthusiast
Let’s start simple.
This one’s the vanilla latte of the bunch—classic, reliable, gets the job done. A “nature enthusiast” is someone who’s genuinely pumped about the outdoors.
No, not the “took-a-hike-once-and-posted-about-it-for-a-year” kind. I mean the ones who actually get jazzed about dirt trails and native plants.
Why it’s awesome:
- Sounds professional (hello, LinkedIn).
- Works in both casual and formal convos.
- Doesn’t sound like you’re trying too hard.
When to use it:
Talking to your boss, writing a Tinder bio, or trying to impress someone who owns a Patagonia jacket.
2. Outdoorsman / Outdoorswoman / Outdoorsy Person
Gender optional, of course.
These terms scream campfires, canoes, and owning way too many flannel shirts. If someone lives for the fresh air and never leaves home without a multi-tool, this one’s for them.
Why it slaps:
- It’s specific. They don’t just “like” nature—they live in it.
- Feels rugged and adventurous.
Just don’t confuse it with someone who lives outside by accident. Yikes.
3. Naturalist
This one’s for the sciencey types. A naturalist is someone who studies or closely observes nature, often as a hobby or profession.
Think David Attenborough… but you in Crocs, holding a butterfly net.
Pros:
- Makes you sound intelligent AF.
- Great for resume-padding or dating profiles.
Heads up:
Don’t confuse this with naturist—that’s code for nudist. Totally different vibe. Please don’t show up to your local trail “au naturel.” 😳
4. Tree Hugger
Ah yes, the classic.
Once an insult, now a badge of honor. Tree huggers are eco-friendly folks who passionately protect the environment—and sometimes literally hug trees. No judgment.
Why it’s iconic:
- It’s cheeky, yet sincere.
- Implies love for nature and action to protect it.
FYI:
Use it playfully. Not everyone loves the label. Some might take it too seriously… or not seriously enough.
5. Green Thumb
Okay, this one’s for the plant-obsessed, not necessarily the hiking crowd.
If someone grows succulents better than they manage their social life, they’ve got a green thumb. These are your garden gods and houseplant hoarders.
Perks of the phrase:
- Super visual and fun.
- Great for bios and gifts (“For my favorite green thumb!”).
Not suitable for:
People who kill cacti. Sorry, Karen.
6. Eco-Warrior
Sound the trumpets. 🏹
Eco-warriors are activists and protectors of the Earth, often outspoken, occasionally chaining themselves to trees (for the cause, obviously).
They fight for climate change solutions, wildlife protection, and all things green.
Why it’s powerful:
- Has that rebel-with-a-cause vibe.
- Shows deep commitment, not just weekend hikes.
Use with care:
If someone just recycles once a week, they’re probably not an eco-warrior. Let’s not water it down.
7. Earth Child
Feeling a little whimsical? This one’s got that ✨free spirit✨ vibe.
“Earth child” gives off major flower-crown energy. It’s for the barefoot-in-the-park, moon-loving souls who feel most at home under a big oak tree.
Why it’s cute:
- Feels dreamy and poetic.
- Works for those with a boho or spiritual twist.
Caution:
If your friend uses crystals to charge their phone (figuratively), this is probably their term. Otherwise, might be a bit too out there.
8. Biophile
Sounds fancy, right?
A biophile is someone who feels a deep love for living things and nature. It comes from “biophilia,” a term coined by psychologist Erich Fromm and popularized by biologist E.O. Wilson.
Translation:
You’re obsessed with life forms—plants, animals, ecosystems, you name it.
Why it’s cool:
- Nerdy in the best way.
- Feels rooted in science and passion.
Bonus points:
Throw it into a conversation and watch people’s eyes widen. “Oh, I’m a total biophile.” Boom. Instant intrigue.
9. Wildlife Lover
This one’s kinda self-explanatory, but still solid.
A wildlife lover is someone who’s especially fond of animals in their natural habitats. Think birdwatchers, safari-goers, squirrel whisperers.
Why it’s legit:
- Very specific.
- Works in both serious and casual convos.
Pro tip:
Don’t use it to describe someone whose only exposure to “wildlife” is their cat attacking houseplants. 😐
10. Environmentalist
This one gets serious.
Environmentalists are folks who advocate for the protection and preservation of the environment. Not just a vibe—it’s a mission.
Why it matters:
- Tied to activism and purpose.
- Perfect for those who walk the walk (and compost the compost).
When to use:
If they volunteer, donate, and rally for climate justice—call them this. If they just post #NatureIsHealing once a year… maybe not.
11. Nature Junkie
You know that friend who disappears into the woods every weekend and calls it “therapy”? Yeah, they’re a nature junkie.
This one’s got edge.
It’s playful, a little wild, and totally captures the obsessive side of loving the outdoors.
Why it works:
- Fun, informal, and real.
- Feels like a badge for those addicted to sunshine and forest trails.
Warning:
Don’t use this around literal junkies unless you’re ready for awkward silence.
12. Backpacker / Hiker / Camper
Okay, these aren’t synonyms per se, but let’s be real—these labels often come with deep love for nature baked in.
Choose your fighter:
- Backpacker: Loves long treks and minimalist travel.
- Hiker: Obsessed with trails, elevation, and bragging about their step count.
- Camper: Will sleep in a nylon bag to feel alive.
Why they count:
- They imply action, not just admiration.
- Super relatable in niche communities.
Just don’t mix them up—a backpacker might throw hands if you call them a “glamper.”
13. Forest Bather
Yep, this is a real thing.
“Forest bathing,” or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere for relaxation and healing.
So a forest bather? That’s someone who intentionally chills in the woods like it’s a spa day.
Why it’s beautiful:
- Unique and exotic-sounding.
- Has a zen, calming aesthetic.
Perfect for:
Mindfulness lovers, nature meditators, and people who own too many calming teas.
14. Earth Lover
Keepin’ it simple and sweet.
“Earth lover” covers all the bases—plants, animals, landscapes, sustainability, the whole eco-package. It’s broad, but emotionally rich.
Why it resonates:
- Feels heartfelt.
- Works in all contexts—casual, romantic, environmental.
Use this when:
You want to describe someone’s values as much as their interests.
15. Nature Nerd
Let’s wrap this up with a wink.
If someone watches Planet Earth on loop, names their plants, and gets excited about fungi… they’re a proud nature nerd.
Why it’s gold:
- Quirky and affectionate.
- Shows passion with a dash of self-deprecation.
I proudly claim this one. Call me a nature nerd, and I’ll probably hug you. Then tell you five facts about moss.
Final Thoughts: Own Your Inner Nature Nut 🌎
So, what do you call someone who loves nature?
Honestly? Any of the above… or all of them, depending on the vibe.
Some days you’re a tree hugger. Some days you’re an eco-warrior. And some days? You’re just a happy little dirt-covered nature nerd. Own it.
Whether you’re making a gift tag, building a social profile, or just need a word that gets you, now you’ve got 15 better ways to say “I love nature.”
Now go hug a tree. Or at least water your plants, you monster.
Meta-description:
Looking for what to call someone who loves nature? Here are 15 fun, poetic, and playful synonyms for every outdoorsy soul—tree huggers to biophiles!
